Sunday, July 13, 2008

‘Ugly Aur Pagli’ songs are peppy, enjoyable

Film: “Ugly Aur Pagli”; Music Composer: Anu Malik; Lyricist: Amitabh Verma; Singers: Shaan, Mika Singh, Anmol Malik, Anu Malik, Anushka Manchanda, Ishq Bector, Dibyendu Mukherjee, Vasundhara Das, Mohit Chauhan, Sunidhi Chauhan, Krishna, Hard Kaur; Music Rights; Ratings: ***
Comedies don’t always have great audio tracks, but there are exceptions. And “Ugly Aur Pagli” is one of them. Anu Malik’s compositions are young and vibrant without sounding too mushy or immature.

Sunday, December 30, 2007

Sunday

Innovative titles and themes are in. Otherwise, would one have ever imagined till a few years back that there would be a movie made with a title like Sunday with the film revolving around the life of a girl who had one missing day in her life - Sunday!? Directed by Rohit Shetty, Sunday is an interesting project in the offering since it boasts of an ensemble star cast comprising of actors as diverse as Ajay Devgan, Arshad Warsi, Ayesha Takia, Irrfan Khan, and Anjana Sukhani. Also, it comes after Zameen and Golmaal, two diverse films by the young film maker. With composers as diverse as Sandeep Chowta, Suroor, Daler Mehndi, Shibani Kashyap, Raghav Sachar and Amar Mohile coming up with a song apiece, Sunday raises quite some hopes as one plays on the film's soundtrack.

It doesn't take beyond a few seconds to get your neck in motion as the beats arrive for 'Missing Sunday'. With Earl Edgar chipping in with his occasional rap-n-reggae, Mahua Kamath (ex-VIVA girl) and Suraj come together in this groovy track by Sandeep Chowta who makes a comeback on Bollywood OST soundtrack years after his 'Laila Laila' in Samay - When Time Strikes. As such the track has a very few lines (written by Farhad Sajid) and it is mainly the composition with long standalone musical pieces in between the lines which makes it a unique experience.

http://www.indiafm.com/movies/musicreview/13479/index.html

Tuesday, March 06, 2007

Kabhi Alvida Naa Kehnaa

Starring: Amitabh Bachchan, Shah Rukh Khan, Rani Mukherjee, Abhishek Bachchan, Preity Zinta, Kiron Kher, Arjun RampalDirector: Karan JoharMusic: Shankar-Ehsaan-LoyLyricists: Javed Akhtar
Kabhi Alvida Naa Kehnaa Tum Ko Bhi Hai Khabar
Mujhko Bhi Hai Pata
Ho Raha Hai Judaa
Dono Ka Raasta
Dur Jaake Bhi Mujhse Tum Meri Yaadon Main Rehna
Kabhi Alvida Naa Kehna... (3)
Tum Ko Bhi Hai Khabar
Mujhko Bhi Hai Pata
Ho Raha Hai Judaa
Dono Ka Raasta
Dur Jaake Bhi Mujhse Tum Meri Yaadon Main Rehna
Kabhi Alvida Naa Kehna... (3)
Jitni Thi Khushiyaa
Sab Kho Chuki Hai
Bas Ek Gham Hai Ki Jaata Nahi
Samjha Ke Dekha Behla Ke Dekha
Dil Hai Ki Chain Isko Aata Nahi
Aata Nahi
Aasoo Hai Ki Hai Angarai
Aag Hai Ab Aankhon Se Behna
Kabhi Alvida Naa Kehna... (3)
Rut Aa Rahi Hai Rut Jaa Rahi Hai
Dard Ka Mausam Badla Nahi
Rang Yeh Gham Itna Hai Gehra
Sadiyon Main Hoga Halka Nahi
Halka Nahi
Kaun Jaane Kya Hona Hai
Hum Ko Hai Ab Kya Kya Sehna
Kabhi Alvida...
( Kabhi Alvida Naa Kehna )... (2)
Tum Ko Bhi Hai Khabar
Mujhko Bhi Hai Pata
Ho Raha Hai Judaa
Dono Ka Raasta
Dur Jaake Bhi Mujhse Tum Meri Yaadon Main Rehna
( Kabhi Alvida Naa Kehna )...(6)

Tuesday, October 10, 2006

Yatra

While the debate is on around whether Anu Malik's score for 'Umrao Jaan' matches up to the class of Khayyam's classic score in the namesake flick a couple of decades back, the soundtrack of 'Yatra' enters silently. Why is the film special? For three reasons: 1. The film has music by Khayyam. 2) The film stars Rekha as a coutesan once again after 'Umrao Jaan'. 3) Nana Patekar is in the lead along with Rekha and hence makes the casting special. Directed by acclaimed Gautam Ghose, the film comes from the production house of Bipin Kumar Vohra who had made '15 Park Avenue' early this year. Apart from Khayyam, Ghose too handles the music of around half the album.

With a niche theme like 'Yatra' and a expectations of a score dipped in Indian classical music, one plays on the album. Well, it turns out that the album is indeed hardcore classical and is aimed only at a minute section of audience.

http://www.indiafm.com/movies/musicreview/12898/index.html

Umrao Jaan

If there is an acid test for Anu Malik this season or in fact this decade, it has to be with 'Umrao Jaan'. The man has seen enough highs and lows in his decades old career so far but the music of 'Umrao Jaan' is something that would be scrutinized by one and all. And why not? After all the tracks from Khayyam's 'Umrao Jaan' are still being appreciated by the connoisseurs of classical Indian music and it is certainly no mean feat to match. Hence when J.P. Dutta picks up the baton to narrate the story while roping in Anu Malik and Javed Akhtar saab, one can't help but look at each and every track with keen interest. Also with Aishwarya Rai being the central protagonist along with Abhishek Bachchan, Shabana Azmi and Suneil Shetty, one can't help but have mammoth expectations from the film and its music.

So does the team deliver? Does it come close to the classic score from the yesteryears or at least form an identity of its own without worrying about the past? Will Anu Malik have another successful score after 'Jaan-E-Mann'? The answer to each of the questions is yes!

Before one starts hearing the tracks, first thing that strikes on looking at the CD cover is the name of Alka Yagnik. She is practically there for each of the tracks except for a couple and bags a biggie as the voice of legendary Umrao Jaan.

http://www.indiafm.com/movies/musicreview/12719/index.html

Sunday, June 04, 2006

Music Review : Corporate
It's all about money, honey! And if there is a dash of power and politics added to it, it becomes a deadly game of one-upmanship, backstabbing and a sophisticated game that is played behind the glass corridors, modular rooms and ceilings that look up to the sky. That's the essence of Madhur Bhandarkar's Corporate that stars Bipasha Basu in a central role who watches all the proceedings with a close eye as business entrepreneurs Raj Babbar and Rajat Kapoor clash in their battle for supremacy. Supported by actors like Kay Kay Menon, Harsh Chhaya, Sammir Dattani, Minissha Lamba, Lillete Dubey along with Payal Rohatgi in a special appearance, Bipasha enjoys all the attention as she is a witness to this high voltage drama that has music by 'Page 3' composer Shamir Tandon with Sandeep Nath doing the job as a lyricist.How can one ever forget the marvelous composition 'Huzoor-E-Aala' that had Ashaji giving it her all to come up with a splendid composition? She kick-starts the proceedings with 'Lamha Lamha Zindagi Hai' that comes in a regular and a sad version. There is an extended musical piece to set the prelude for this philosophical number that seems to be taking off from where Lataji left with 'Kitne Ajeeb Rishte Hain Yahaan Pe' in 'Page 3'. The difference here is that while 'Kitne Ajeeb' dealt with the relationships of convenience, 'Lamha Lamha' is about living life today, yesterday and tomorrow. Mainly a song for the background music score, it carries a certain meaning to it and should fit into the situation, but that's about it! The song is slow moving and doesn't cause any harm to the ears but overall neither the regular nor the sad version are of the kind that would qualify it to be one of the best songs this year. Sapna Mukerji, who is rarely seen in the Bollywood scheme of things as far as music and songs are concerned, makes an exception for 'O Sikandar' where she has Kailash Kher as the dominating partner. Kher also features as himself in this qawalli that is quite catchy and racy and works instantly with the listener. Picturized on Payal Rohatgi who makes a guest appearance in this item song, 'O Sikandar' carries a meaningful feel to it as it inspires an individual to rise up from the ashes, understand his worth and take on the world! Pretty much suited for the situation, the track promises to bring certain strength to the narrative due to sheer passion it brings with it. Also notable is Payal Rohatgi who is seen in a different light altogether as she sheds her image of the past and looks graceful yet glamorous with a new body language and expressions to match. It's time for two more versions of 'O Sikandar' to come as some jazzy effects with rap-n-reggae [sounding rather unnecessary] are thrown in to spice up theqawalli in its 'International Dance Mix'. Sorry, but one would go with the original any time rather than giving a hear to this attempted fusion that hardly cuts ice! Some more twists and turns are added to the 'Desi Mix' version of 'O Sikandar' that has Sonu Kakkar moving away from the sophisticated 'andaaz' of Sapna Mukerji to being more vociferous. All said and done, in the end it is Kailash Kher who stands out in each of the three versions along with Sapna who does well in the original version. But is it the item song of the year so far? The answer is NO, but it is still better than numerous other item numbers that pop in a film's narrative without any cause and the reason for that is some thoughtful lyrics by Sandeep Nath. One can't help but go to the beginning of the song as soon as one hears a husky male voice uttering the words – "Hello Darling, You Are Fired". You ask yourself a question if this is for real and reaffirmation comes on hearing it again. A song about the way a corporate world works with behind-the-scenes happenings, back stabbings, sweet talks and the works, it is sung by Alisha in a manner that Usha Uthap is famous for. Comprising of some English words to suit the mood of this song set in a trendy western manner, it comes across as a rather easy tune that may not have really required much effort behind its creation. Gary Lawyer croons a couple of lines in this theme number that has the line 'It's a Corporate world' coming at numerous junctures. An average number that would be forgotten soon after the film is released and gone. A remix version comes in the shape of 'Corporate Title' that has some rework done to it, but not too much avail. It's time to get into an Anu Malik mould with 'Peele Peele Do Do Ghoont' that tries to be all hip and trendy but just doesn't come across as one due to its lyrics that seem to be out of synch with the mood of the tune. Yet another average song that has hardly any retention power beyond the film's run, it doesn't quite work inspite of Vasundhra Das' presence behind the mike where she is supported by Sangeet Haldipur. Yes, with help of an effective choreography, one may just choose to ignore the lyrics by swaying along with the tune but overall it is not a song to really cheer about loudly. 'Corporate' has an extremely average soundtrack but that doesn't really come as a surprise as the film is hardly about songs and dances. With musical pieces primarily to be incorporated as a part of background score with hardly a song or two featuring in its entirety on screen, this score by Shamir Tandon just passes muster.
Music Review : Jaana - Let's Fall in Love
There is something about these small movies that makes you a little excited about them! What if these newcomers turn out to be tomorrow's superstars? What is the film turns out to be reasonably well made? What if the music is good enough to be given a second, third and many more hearings? What if....?'Jaana-Let's Fall in Love' is one such film that somehow makes you look forward to hear its music. Call it a fresh pairing, feel good factor and some good vibes that comes on hearing a first couple of songs that are already on air! Produced by Tess Mirza, who is the man behind couple of musicals like 'Salaami' and 'Sanjay', 'Jaana – Let's Fall In Love' introduces Rehan Khan who makes his debut opposite Anjana Sukhani who has earlier been seen in films like 'Hum Dum' and 'Sun Zarra'. Directed by Shahrukh Mirza, the film is also notable due to the fact that Rajesh Khanna and Zeenat Aman return as a pair. Another interesting factor is that as many as 6 music directors compose for the film, which means practically each of the tracks has a unique composer. Does the strategy work? Yes, indeed! Shaan has the biggest role to play in the entire album as he gets to sing 5 out of the total 6 numbers in the film. First to come is the title song 'Jaana – Let's Fall in Love' where he pairs up with Shreya Ghoshal for a highly romantic outing. A poetic number written by Shahrukh Sultan himself and composed by Abbas Jelani, it belongs to the Chopra-Johar school of music that is a good enough point to establish the credentials of the song. A song based totally on melody, one can as well imagine the number to be picturized on a romantic hero like a Shahrukh Khan or a Saif Ali Khan. A song to cherish for repeated hearings; it is a very good start to the album and makes the listener ask for more from the remaining songs. Composer Hanif arrives with a remix version of the song and just when you would have thought that it would be one of those hurriedly done, one-beat-added-here-two-beats-added-there kind of a song, there is a surprise in store! The pace of the track remains more or less the same with the prime difference being that rhythm is added on to the melody to make the remix version a little trendier. A solo by Shaan, the song is good again and has an innocent teenage feel to it that makes you like it with a smile on the face! Shaan continues to get everyone around him fall in love and creates a lovey-dovey mushy feel as he croons yet another solo 'Jaana – Ek Kahaani Suni'. A feel good number that is one of the best by composer duo of Anand Milind in recent times, it makes you wonder if the two would now aspire for a vacant slot that has been created by an exit of Jatin Lalit as a pair? Written by Shahrukh Sultan, it is a number that deserves a much bigger reach instead of getting lost somewhere due to lack of big names. Yet another beautiful number composed in quick succession, it would have been an ideal candidate for a Top-10 chart if only backed by a big production house and promoted aggressively. A point to note though – while Shaan does a good job, it would have made a GREAT impact if Amit Kumar would have come behind the mike for this one. It's so much tailor-made for him! Naureen is the partner for Shaan this time around as the sound of guitar begins 'Yes I Love You'! The opening music along with the song's title makes it quiet clear that this is going to be yet another number composed for teenage love. As the lyrics arrive and Shaan and Naureen begin their crooning, you realize that 'Jaana – Let's Fall in Love' has thrown one of the biggest surprises this year with the kind of melodies that come one after another. A slow moving number with just the right pauses, rhythm and musical arrangements, it is difficult to choose if 'Yes I Love Is You' is better than the songs preceding it or vice versa. Without falling in the trap of choosing one song over other, what works better is to just fall in love with this song composed by newcomer Pramod Tripathi and written by V.K.Rawal! A decade back Abhijeet sung 'Ole Ole'. Now it's the turn of Shaan to go 'Ola Ola' that has its opening sound of guitar straight out of a Yash Chopra film. The way Shaan goes around rendering the song; it appears to be a Jatin Lalit track all the way. Composer Guru Sharma comes up with a rhythmic campus tune that has a catchy sound of guitar accompanying the song throughout. This rhythmic song written by Shahrukh Sultan bears good quality but the impact of all the melodious songs in the past have been so tremendous that this supposedly 'stage' number comes only second to them. Now what one looks forward to is some good dance moves and an eye catchy choreography! The longest song of the album comes in the form of 'Kalma Kalma' and it is for the first time that a male singer other than Shaan gets behind the mike. Kailash Kher is the man who croons this Sufi number that has been composed by Rajendra Shiv and written by Moied. A situational number that appears to be suited for a sad yet passionate part in the movie, it should enhance the mood of the narrative and create the desired feeling. A good way to end the album! If there has been a musical score that has surprised this year so far, it is undoubtedly 'Jaana – Let's Fall in Love'. With Reshammiya fever all over and some of the biggies failing to create the desired impact, not many may have bothered to give the film's music a second chance. But the makers of the film have showed good trust in the six composers, each of whom come up with one of their best tunes. Now the call of the situation is a highly aggressive promotional campaign followed by good word of mouth, proper release of the film and its success at the box office that should bring this album in the limelight.
Music Review : Chup Chup Ke
Priyadarshan and Himesh Reshammiya come back together with 'Chup Chup Ke' after their association in 'Kyon Ki'. Though the music in the Salman-Karrena starrer was good, it couldn't go an extra distance due to the film failing at the box office. Times have changed quickly with Reshammiya being the hottest selling composer/singer today, Priyadarshan basking in the glory of twin successes in the form of 'Garam Masala' and 'Maalamaal Weekly' while Shahid-Kareena finally getting a HIT in the shape of '36 China Town'. All this combined with the comic power of Paresh Rawal, Om Puri, Rajpal Yadav and Shakti Kapoor along with Sunil Shetty and Neha Dhupia makes CCK a hot product this summer. Sameer, who is practically writing for more than 50% of the films releasing these days, is the lyricist for CCK too! Reshammiya's favorite DJ Akbar Sami takes care of the remixing department.If a film's composer is Himesh Reshammiya then it is must for an album to have a song sung by him. 'Shaadi Se Pehle' has been the only exception in last few months and everyone knows what happened to its music sales! There is a certain expectation that a music lover has from his films now and CCK doesn't disappoint as Reshammiya pairs up with his favorite co-singer Tulsi Kumar for 'Shabbe Firaq'. It's the melody of 'Aa Re Aa Re’ that sets the tune for the song that has Reshammiya going all out while crooning the opening lines. A great fusion of Middle-East, Indian and Western music, 'Shabbe Firaq' has chartbuster written all over it and has already helped the album take a good start at the music stores. A rhythmic dance track that goes at a decent pace rather than rushing its way through, this well written number with fresh lyrics has been picturized innovatively by music video director Kookie V Gulati with the help of some imaginative sets. With DJ Akbar Sami coming to the scene, the proceedings were always meant to become further engrossing and the result is there for everyone to be seen. Pace picks up, scenario gets livelier and it's time to hit the dance floors. A small piece of information here – all those who have accused Reshammiya of singing with a nasal twang would have to find some another reason to put him down after hearing him singing on a different note altogether! It's Himesh Reshammiya himself who croons the title of the song 'Dil Vich Lagya Ve' twice before handing over the singing reins to Sonu Nigam who sings the number in a full throated manner and lots of energy. Newcomer Akriti Kakkar, who has mostly sung remixes in the past (notably being 'Rangeela Re' that was shot on Deepal Shaw) joins Sonu Nigam and comes across as a pro who has innumerous playback numbers to her credits in the past. Kunal Ganjawala appears after a while and does a great job along with the two singers to make 'Dil Vich' a smashing dance number set to an Indian contemporary tune. A rhythmic number that has Shahid Kappor giving his all while dancing along, it is THE BEST song in the recent times from Reshammiya that had some other singer than the composer himself. There have been some songs in 'Banaras', 'Shaadi Se Pehle', '36 China Town' and 'Phir Hera Pheri' in recent times that were sung by a singer other than Reshammiya but none of these songs had a potential to be a HIT. Hearing 'Dil Vich', it's quite sure that this should be the one that would go an extra distance. And why not when you have Akbar Sami's remixed version to add on to the original to present the song in an altogether different 'avtar'?! While the proceedings were completely Indian in the original, Akbar Sami adds on a Western effect to it to enhance the song's reach to pubs, discs and lounges. Before Reshammiya himself had started crooning, one of his favorite singers was K.K. The talented singer arrives on the scene again with 'Ghoomar' that has Sunidhi Chauhan pairing up with him. Based on Rajasthani/Gujrati folk music, the song is given a different touch altogether to make it fit into the Bollywood scheme of things. A rhythmic number that may not be the most unique tune that you may have heard in the past, it is still good enough to keep you engaged due to its rhythmic approach and some loud musical arrangements that suit with the racy fun feel of the song. 'Ghoomar Re' is one of those songs that mostly remain unaffected even if presented in a remix version. Overall the song may not have a chartbuster appeal but its filler capability helps the album to sail on. The rhythm of 'RE' continues with 'Shabbe Firaq [Aa RE, Aa RE]', 'Dil Vich Lagya RE', 'Ghoomar RE' to 'Aaya RE'. A number with the kind of lyrics that only Sameer can write [Aaya Re Dil Tumpe Aaya Re Chaya Re Nasha Chaya Re], 'Aaya Re' is a kind of Reshammiya song that has brought him into limelight for last few years since he started composing for Salman Khan films. A song by Kunal Ganjawala, Sunidhi Chauhan and Arya that does well in both the versions, be it an original that has a distinct Reshammiya melody to the remix by Akbar Sami that changes its mood by moving at a rapid pace without giving you a breather at all, 'Aaya Re' is yet another good song in succession for 'Chup Chup Ke' that maintains a good standard throughout. After hearing the two versions, one feels that the essence of the song is more interesting in its original version and this is what one may be inclined to hear if looking for some good melody! With singers like Vijay Yesudas and Shreya Ghoshal credited for a song, one expects the proceedings to mellow down a little and turn outright melodious. The beginning of 'Tumhi Se' promises just that and when Vijay Yesudas begins his crooning, you can't just help but admire the newcomer's singing prowess. Son of the great music maestro Yesudas, Vijay's voice does resemble his father's when it comes to depth but overall does well to manage an identity of its own. A soulful number that has peace written all over it, 'Tumhi Se' is a romantic number that has Shreya Ghoshal, one of the most suited voice today for songs of this genre, giving him good company. Reshammiya comes up with a tune that is so unlike his style, past or present, and should win the hearts of even his detractors. Kunal Ganjawala, who is now easily amongst the Top-5 singers in Bollywood today gets his share with an unplugged version of the same song and ensures that his effort doesn't go in vain. If there is any song that comes with a 'SURPRISE' tag associated with it, it is 'Tumhi Se'. The song may not be an instant coffee but is definitely a 'lambi race ka ghoda'! The only song in the album that has only one version associated with it, 'Mausam Hai Bada Qatil', is a Sonu Nigam single and has its opening tune set to the 60s fashion. On hearing closely, one realizes that the rhythm has some resemblance to Reshammiya's own 'Aa Meri Life Bana De' [Kahin Pyaar Na Ho Jaaye] but he arranges the music in such a manner that it comes across as a number that could have made none other than a Rajendra Kumar or a Shammi Kapoor sing it along. From someone like Sonu Nigam, the least that you expect is a good rendition and he (obviously) does well here too! A good song to end the album! After '36 China Town', Himesh Reshammiya can easily assure himself yet another popular soundtrack that is worthy of entering the Top-5 charts in a couple of weeks to come. NOW is the time to up the tempo of the music promotion and bombard the music channels with all the songs for getting the album its due.
Music Review : Phir Hera Pheri
Ramshastra, Kartoos, Hera Pheri, Awara Paagal Deewana, Aan - Men At Work and Deewane Huye Paagal - What's common between all these films? Producer Firoz Nadiadwala, who has always believed in giving his directors a larger than life canvas! What's the other common factor? Music director Anu Malik, who has more often than not given the kind of music that a Nadiadwala film warrants! But with 'Phir Hera Pheri', there is a slight shift in plan as composer Anu Malik is replaced by current numero-uno Himesh Reshammiya to come up with the film's music. No wonder, it doesn't come as a surprise to see as many as 3 tracks sung by Reshammiya himself as Akbar Sami churns out a remix for each of the 6 tracks in the film. Also, when there is Reshammiya, lyricist Sameer is bound to be the one doing all the writing and same happens in case of this 'Hera Pheri' sequel that stars the usual suspects Akshay Kumar, Suneil Shetty and Paresh Rawal along with Bipasha Basu and Rimmi Sen.On you mark. Get. Set. And Go! Welcome Reshammiya who goes hip hop this time for 'Yaad Sataye Teri' and guess what, delivers in this genre as well! A smooth sailing number set at a decent pace, it gets your neck in motion as you hear a Reshammiya number for an umpteenth time in the course of your normal day. If you have loved Himesh compositions of last six months, you are certainly going to enjoy this one too. As expected, DJ Akbar Sami's added zing further spices up the song that moves at a much faster pace in its remix version and rocks the show in a big way. Not surprisingly, it turns out to be much more entertaining and makes this hip-hop number into a full fledged dance number. Enjoy! Reshammiya singing 'Ae Meri Zohrajabeen'? Is that really possible? Well, don't rub your eyes in disbelief as that's what exactly happens when Sameer comes up with his own lines while keeping the opening words intact from the classic track in 'Waqt'. The song is rendered in a high pitch by Reshammiya as he composes this rhythmic dance track that has all it takes to be yet another hit for him. Musical arrangements are made of an excellent fusion of Western and Indian instruments that give an edge to this song that has potential to be popular. A spiced up number that makes you look forward to the high-on-energy remix by DJ Akbar Sami, one wonders why was this song not chosen over 'Mujhko Yaad Sataye Teri' for the kick start of the album's promotion? Tulsi Kumar, who has already given a couple of hits with Reshammiya ['Mohabbat Ki' -Aksar, Title song - 'Humko Deewana Kar Gaye'] arrives with Reshammiya for the first duet of the album 'Dil Nayyiyo Maane Re'. Purists may have all the reasons to say that the song is in the same style as numerous other Reshammiya numbers but his fans certainly won't be complaining as he delivers exactly what he promises and what his fans expect! The song is in succession to the numerous love songs composed by him in 'Aashiq Banaya Aapne', 'Aksar' and 'Aap Ka Surroor' and 'Dil Nayyiyo Maane Re' continues to keep his flag high. Starting off with high pitch, for certain unexplained reasons, he suddenly knocks on the Bappi Lahiri territory at places, that makes you wonder if that was really required. Nevertheless, Tulsi Kumar, who gives good company to Reshammiya, can be rest assured that her work won't go unnoticed as the song is one of those kinds that should keep the music channels busy, both in the original and Sami's zingy remixed version! Sonu Nigam, Shaan and Rakesh Upadhyay get together for the theme song 'Phir Hera Pheri' that it interspersed with the tinkling sound of coins. A fast paced fun song that is about the three prime protagonists in the film who lust after money and can do some 'hera pheri' again to get more of it, it is situational and should have some of its parts appearing as a part of film's background score or some critical junctures in the film. Also, expect a grand choreography for the song in true Nadiadwala style. Anyone who follows English music would be able to relate to the beginning of 'Dil De Diya' where Sunidhi Chauhan's crooning is a clear lift from a popular western track. Kunal Ganjawala joins her in this love duet that has a melody of the mid/late 90s and in fact sounds more like a Anu Malik track than Himesh Reshammiya's. There is a bit of rap-n-reggae too [that is rather unnecessary] but overall the song still manages to pass muster. Both Kunal and Sunidhi sing in a high pitch here and it’s their spirited rendering that helps the number go on smoothly, though there is nothing new in the song to talk home about. One factor that may not make the song noticeable if the choreography is done in a lavish and eye candy manner. The title itself of Sunidhi Chauhan's 'Pyaar Ki Chatni' suggests to be made for the gallery as the opening shifts from a 'bhajan' setting to 'dhinchaak' beats a la the signature beats of Laxmikant Pyaarelal's '1 2 Ka 4' from 'Ram Lakhan'. A song that seems to be designed as a 'nautanki' number, it turns out to be exactly as one expected, i.e. aimed at a specific gentry. Watch out for the lyrical gems that go as: "Dil Ke Pudine Ka Ras Tapka De, Thodi Si Chaahat Ki Mirchi Milade; Madhoshiyon Ki Ilaychi Girake, Tu Narm Ungli Se Mujhko Chakhade'A situational item song picturized on Dia Mirza, it can easily be given an easy skip and best forgotten once the album is over, be it in the original or the remixed version that has an overdose of the word 'chatni' interspersed throughout the song. 'Phir Hera Pheri' has 3 foot tapping numbers; all sung by Himesh Reshammiya ['Mujhko Yaad Sataye Teri', 'Ae Meri Zohrajabeen' and 'Dil Nayyiyo Maane Re'], a couple of average tracks ['Dil De Diya', title song] and an apology of a song 'Pyaar Ki Chatni'. If you have already become a Himesh Reshammiya worshipper by now, then the first three songs (along with their remixed versions by DJ Akbar Sami] should be good enough reasons for you to enjoy the album of 'Phir Hera Pheri' for a few weeks to come. But a super success like 'Aksar', 'Aap Ka Surroor', '36 China Town' or a 'Tom Dick and Harry' is ruled out.
Movie Review : Love Ke Chakkar Mein
Laughter is a difficult emotion to capture on celluloid. But not all storytellers can achieve the impossible. LOVE KE CHAKKAR MEIN is a desperate attempt at creating a comedy of errors. As the film lacks a substantial script, it just fails to connect with the moviegoer. In fact, the supposed laughathon comes across as a compilation of several masala comedies, resulting in a film that makes no sense at all.Vikram [Aarnav Bhatia] is a jobless MBA, who rides expensive bikes but does not have a job or a house to call his own. As the story moves forward, he gets attracted to Neha, a girl he meets on chat and after a year, decide to meet. They find themselves in love the minute they meet. He also proposes on the first date itself and she readily accepts. But her father puts up a condition: Vikram should get a job within seven days.Vikram goes for a lot of interviews, but is rejected everywhere. He meets Armaan Kochar [Rishi Kapoor], a desperate middle-aged man wanting to sleep with girls half his age. A married man, his wife has an Ekta Kapoor TV serial hangover. Armaan offers a job to Vikram on the condition that he will send his girlfriend with Armaan for one night. Vikram declines the offer, but agrees later on his friend's advice.So, instead his girlfriend, he sends a call girl over to Armaan. Eventually, he gets the job and the marriage is fixed. But Neha's aunt wants Vikram to get his own house. So he approaches his boss again and needless to say, the same situation arises. But all's well that ends well.There's nothing original about LOVE KE CHAKKAR MEIN. In fact, the story gets over in the first hour itself. What follows is the same monotony and a desperate attempt to create comical situations. The writing is completely out of form. Even the direction [B.H. Tharun Kumar] is lackluster. Besides, the film needs to be trimmed by at least 20-25 minutes. Even the music is not worth mentioning.Rishi Kapoor looks completely disinterested. In fact, roles such as the one in LOVE KE CHAKKAR MEIN don't suit him. Aarnav Bhatia needs to take care of his expressions. Parmita should go easy on make up. Shoma Anand irritates. Satish Shah is okay.On the whole, LOVE KE CHAKKAR MEIN is a poor show.